The death toll from a fire at a popular live music pub in Bangkok has risen to 32 after two more people died from their injuries, Thai authorities said Wednesday. The Erawan Emergency Medical Centre reported that 30 people remain hospitalized, with 15 in intensive care, while 44 have been discharged.

The blaze, Thailand's deadliest in 17 years, broke out late Sunday night at the Rong Beer Na Ladprao venue. Firefighters took 30 minutes to extinguish the flames. Most victims died from smoke inhalation, with a few succumbing to burns, according to Wiroon Supasingsiripreecha, chief of the Institute of Forensic Medicine.

Local police said most of the deceased were found trapped in windowless bathrooms, where they may have sought refuge. The cause of the fire remains undetermined, but authorities are investigating possible negligence, including whether emergency exits were obstructed. An electrical short circuit in a ceiling-mounted air conditioner is suspected, while some experts suggest combustible acoustic materials around the stage may have ignited.

Survivors and relatives of victims gathered at Phahonyothin Police Station on Wednesday to give statements, collect belongings, and seek compensation. Natthaphong Lakhorn, 26, who lost a relative in the fire, recounted: “When the fire broke, I just ran, and then all power went out. It was so hectic.” He plans to seek compensation for injuries to his ears and head.

Kanticha Singkhon, 25, who lost her mother, criticized the bar owners for not reaching out to families. A lawyer for the owners said survivors and families would initially receive 10,000 baht (about $300).

Source: www.aljazeera.com